Milton was born on January 6, 1916 to Claudius M and Leah Snow Mecham. He grew up in Brigham City. He attended Box Elder High School where he played football. He won all state quarterback in 1934, and graduated that same year. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from the University of Utah in 1938. During his time at the University of Utah he played football, lettering from 1935-1938. From 1939-1940 he held the position of teaching fellow and assistant at the University of Utah. He left the University of Utah for Weber State in 1940. He was assistant football coach, baseball coach, wrestling coach, and men’s dormitory director from 1940-1941.